Human Rights Commission

City of Morgantown Human Rights Commission Meeting Notes June 16, 2016 Commissioners Present: Jan Derry, Chair Kristen Cooper Don Spencer, Secretary Call to Order – Jan Derry called the meeting to order. In as much as there was no quorum present, it was agreed that the meeting would serve as an informational meeting with notes taken and distributed. Don Spencer submitted a letter of resignation as a member of the Commission due to a change in address located outside of the City limits. Public Session – There were no persons present to participate in a public session. Minutes – No action was taken to approve the May 19, 2016 regular meeting minutes. Communications – Jan Derry reported on communications with Dave Bott from the City administration regarding the Commission’s recommendation on a transgender policy for the City. At previous Commission meetings it had been agreed to recommend that the City follow the transgender policies established by the U.S. Department of Education. This recommendation was conveyed to Bott by the Commission chair. Derry also announced the upcoming hearing on Housing to be conducted by the National Housing Trust Fund in Fairmont on June 30th. The Commission discussed participation in the candlelight vigil planned for the Ogelbay Hall Plaza and the Mountainlair Ballroom to honor the LGBTQ persons lost in the mass killing at the Orlando night club. Priority Items – The Commission discussed the known status of candidates which City Council will choose from in July in making the replacements for the three expected vacancies on the Commission. Don Spencer submitted a presumed final draft for a Universal Design Residential Ordinance to be acted upon at the will of the Commission. Progress Reports – Jan Derry recommended that the drafty of the Welcome Statement be set aside until new Commissioners are appointed by the Council. Don Spencer presented a new draft for a revised City Human Rights ordinance based on input received from Bob Bastress and others. The “New to Morgantown?” materials based on an Iowa City, IA was set aside for review by new Commissioners. New Business – Don Spencer offered to put together an orientation packet based on materials listed on the meeting agenda. Jan Derry recommended incorporation of use of the 23 minute “The Story of Human Rights” video in the orientation session which is expected to take place at the August meeting of the Commission. Kristen Cooper expressed a willingness to fill in on secretarial duties for the Commission until the next election of officers. Regular Meeting Items - The Commissioners reviewed the Human Rights Observances Calendar for observances scheduled during July and August. The meeting was closed by the chair at 8:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted. Don Spencer 6/30/16